In gout, which analyte deposits in joints and other body tissues?

In gout, which analyte deposits in joints and other body tissues?

• A. Calcium
• B. Creatinine
• C. Urea
• D. Uric acid

Answer: (D)

Gout involves deposition of uric acid crystals in joints and soft tissues when uric acid levels in the blood are elevated. Uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism, and when its solubility limit is exceeded, it precipitates as monosodium urate crystals in the synovial fluid and surrounding tissues. These needle‑shaped crystals trigger a strong inflammatory response, causing painful arthritis, and over time can form tophi in various tissues. This crystal deposition is specific to uric acid; calcium, creatinine, and urea do not deposit in joints as part of gout, though they relate to other processes (calcium crystal deposition diseases or renal function).

Gout involves deposition of uric acid crystals in joints and soft tissues when uric acid levels in the blood are elevated. Uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism, and when its solubility limit is exceeded, it precipitates as monosodium urate crystals in the synovial fluid and surrounding tissues. These needle‑shaped crystals trigger a strong inflammatory response, causing painful arthritis, and over time can form tophi in various tissues. This crystal deposition is specific to uric acid; calcium, creatinine, and urea do not deposit in joints as part of gout, though they relate to other processes (calcium crystal deposition diseases or renal function).